Poise, a state of ease or well-being, is closely associated with absence of tension in the perioral area. Poise is a facet of 'security', specifically related to social or interpersonal situations. It is an integrative, and sometimes a defensive, function of the ego, constituting a state of anticipation of and readiness for oncoming stimuli. The event feared is the cutting off of narcissistic supplies. 'Unpoise' is a state of 'traumatic shame'. What is important to the patient is 'the moment of knowledge of the availability of the drive object', not necessarily the actual oral process, the actual taking in of oral supplies. When he has a sense of conviction that the supplies are available, the subject can feel secure.